how do you carry your SLR/lenses? looking for camera bag suggestions...

[Every Miles A Memory]

If just wandering around shooting and only wanting to keep a few accessories with me, I/we use the Lowepro Toploader 75 AW

It'll hold a 5D with a 70-200 (Hood Reversed) with a grip on or any of the pro bodies with their larger frame.

Since 99% of the time I'm out shooting the camera stays in my hand, the bag is really just to carry another lens/flash/accessories/Granola Bar...etc

I find this to be one of the most comfortable bags on the market and have tried dozens over the years.

Cool thing about this model is you can use a chest harness that comes with the bag to strap it on the front of your chest if you have a traditional backpack on and want to keep the camera close at hand.

Another thing I like about the bag is I can strap it on the deck of the kayak and keep a body with lens attached for quick access while paddling.

Not the best example picture, but you can see it latched to the deck

 

[Photog]

LowePro CompuTrekker AW is also my choice. All of my reasons were covered by DHackney.

I am hoping LowePro will come up with a similar bag, that allows entry from the opposite side. This way I can set the bag down (in the dirt), get what I need, and not have to wory about getting grass seeds, dirt, grit, etc., rubbed into my back. I currently carry a garbage bag, to place on the ground, before laying the bag down. PITA all the way around.

The Computrekker works well for vehicle use also. Put an Expedition Portal patch over the LowePro label, to reduce the "Camera Bag" look.

I have seen some other bags, that open this way. F-Stop Satori & Tilapia. The Tilapia was reviewed in the Overland Journal in December 2007. I may be getting a new bag soon; we will see.

I too, have too many camera bags; but not 15 or 40!!!:Wow1:

 

[sinuhexavier]

This is my Pelican that carries my digital still equipment on my travels. For a pack I use a Burton F-Stop that is about 5 years old specifically because it looks nothing like a camera bag.

And... Just to say it again... Get the padded dividers, the foam is garbage...

 

[dhackney]

I am hoping LowePro will come up with a similar bag, that allows entry from the opposite side. This way I can set the bag down (in the dirt), get what I need, and not have to wory about getting grass seeds, dirt, grit, etc., rubbed into my back. I currently carry a garbage bag, to place on the ground, before laying the bag down. PITA all the way around.

I did not catch the model name/number, but I sampled a LowePro backpack style bag with access as you desire at an outfitter store in Quito, Ecuador about two months ago.

The upsides are as you describe, you don't have to worry about getting stuff all over your back after accessing the bag.

Downsides seemed to me to be fighting your way through the straps to get anything in or out.

There is no free lunch.

 

[sinuhexavier]

That's actually one of the big pluses of the Burton F-Stop. You can also swing it around your waist while it's on and access it. The original idea was brought about by DaKine so while shooting in the snow the shooter wouldn't get snow all over his back...

And most definitely does not look like a photo pack.

 

[bajasurf]

Think Tank Photo Bags

I read about these bags on another site and am going to order the Speed Demon for myself. I am providing the link to their website and suggest reading "About Us". Link Below:

www.thinktankphoto.com